-amidst complaints from rice farmers
The government yesterday promised rice farmers no less than $4,000 per bag for paddy which will include a subsidy from the state, according to a release from the Department of Public Information (DPI).
The disclosure was made at a meeting held with rice farmers at Mahaica and came after dissent erupted in various parts of the country over the prices being offered by millers.
Yesterday, during a visit by Stabroek News to Johanna, Black Bush Polder, rice farmers complained of severe financial hardships as plummeting paddy prices, coupled with high operational costs and recent flooding have left many struggling to sustain their livelihoods. Farmers who spoke with Stabroek News expressed frustration over the current situation, with some fearing they may not be able to recover from their losses.
Stabroek News
